Matthews has not played since suffering a lower-body injury from a Nikita Zadorov hit one week ago, but returned to practice on Tuesday, suggesting he is inching closer to a return. That said, Head Coach Craig Berube stated that he "obviously" would not be ready for Thursday's game against Columbus. The 28-year-old Matthews has not been as dynamic as in previous seasons early in 2025-26, scoring 14 points (9G / 5A) through 17 games, but the Leafs have lost five of six and will be eager for their captain to return to the lineup.
